Dale Pendergrass

Vernon (Dale) Pendergrass, 75, of Georgetown, Tennessee, was welcomed home into the arms of Jesus on Friday, December 29, 2023 while at his earthly home with his family and friends at his side after a long journey with dementia.

Dale was born in Birchwood, Tennessee to his parents, Chester and Josephine Pendergrass, and had six brothers and sisters. He was a proud US Army veteran who served during the Vietnam conflict. He was an expert marksman while in the Army and was honorably discharged after his years of service. Upon returning from Vietnam, Dale met the love of his life, his wife Mary Frances Smith. They were married and then Dale attended Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga. Dale and Mary Frances had 3 children: Michael, Chris and Courtney.

Dale pastored several churches over the years. His first pastorate was with Bible Baptist Church in Clarkesville, Texas from February 26, 1976 through August 7, 1977. He came back to the Tennessee Valley to pastor at Mission View Baptist Church from January 4, 1978 through March 1, 1981. After this pastorate, Dale served at Gamble Road Baptist Church from August 14, 1983 through July 6, 1986. He also spent some time ministering as an intern at Gum Springs Baptist Church during his years of service to his Lord.

Dale worked at Westvaco for 26 years where he had many friends. He also received his Class A CDL and worked at Tri-State Warehouse and retired from there. After he retired, Dale spent time helping his son, Chris, start his business, Southern Transport, LLC.

Dale was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Josephine Pendergrass; his sister, Saramedia and brother, Terry Pendergrass and his In-laws, Carl and Lilian Lawson. 

Dale leaves behind his wonderful wife of 53 years, Mary Frances; his children: Michael (Nancy), Chris (Courtney) and Courtney Pendergrass (Ken Stiner); as well as 3 beautiful granddaughters: Gincy Pendergrass, Savannah Jett and MaryLynne Pendergrass. Dale also leaves behind several brothers and sisters: Ronnie Pendergrass, David Pendergrass, Debbie Pendergrass Dixon, Melanie Cheek, and several nieces and nephews.

Dale’s family would like to thank the many people who assisted them over the years and during his final days. These include the VA Administration, the All Pro Agency, Always Care and Hospice and their many wonderful employees and volunteers.

The family will be receiving visitors at Companion Funeral Home on Georgetown Road, Cleveland on Thursday, January 4, 2024, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm EST followed by a service at 7:00 pm. Dale will be laid to rest at Johnston Cemetery on Friday, January 5, 2024. The family will be meeting at Companion Funeral Home at 10:00 am on Friday to go in procession to the graveside service. The graveside service will begin at 11:00 am. 

The Reverend Dudley Nichols will officiate the service and the pallbearers will be NC Cartwright, Ken Stiner, Jeff Howard, Tim Book, Corey Pendergrass and Shane Pendergrass.

In lieu of flowers, please make Tribute Donations to the Dementia Society of America at www.dementiasociety.org or Alzheimer’s Foundation at www.act.alz.org.